December 3rd, 2024

***Ice Report***

Finally, wind conditions calmed down enough for ice to quickly form over the majority of lakes in the Ely area. Smaller/shallower lakes in the Ely area have been capped over since Thanksgiving Day last week, so expect ice to be quite a bit thicker on them. Handful of reports from those shallow lakes, had ice as thick as 6” along the shorelines and out to the weedlines. With a nice cold snap and forecasted windshields as low as -25 coming Wednesday, traditional early ice pike spots will have enough ice for foot travel this weekend.

As always ice picks and a good chisel is strongly recommended if you plan on fishing somewhere without fresh tracks and especially if you plan to venture out to deeper water for walleyes!

Full selection of live bait will be in on Thursday!

Early winter serenity on Shagawa Lake! This wide panorama from December 2nd, 2024, shows fresh, glassy ice coverin' the expanse under a cloudy December sky near Ely, MN—prime BWCA early-ice vibes. Light snow dusts the surface with thin cracks and bubbles frozen underneath, highlightin' good initial thickness buildin' up safely. The distant tree line of dark pines and scattered birches glows against the horizon, bare branches pokin' through on the near shore, and that endless Boundary Waters wilderness feel hittin' hard—no tracks or holes yet, just pure anticipation for the first safe outings. Early December conditions were settin' solid around Ely MN, ideal for scoutin' deep spots and targetin' lake trout, stream trout, tullibee, and eelpout as the bite ramps up. Rent a heated ice house from Arrowhead Outdoors to stay warm and productive out there! Grab premium fishing tackle like heavy jigs, spoons, and tip-ups, plus hunting gear and camping gear for your full Ely winter lineup. Come see us for gear, bait, and the freshest tips!